Is this a good welder

[dave1701]

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200306073_200306073

My dad wants to weld his mower deck. I want to weld my go kart. We are wondering if this welder is any good. I see it was made in the USA.





http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200403263_200403263

We were also looking at this one. Obviously, the Hobart one is better. But how much better? We won't be using gas. It will not really be used that much. Will the Hobart be easier to use. Which as better value?

 

[kendelrk]

i would say use the 125. its cheaper, and its got all the basic componets you need

 

[devino246]

Hobart has an extra 15 amps, plus the brand name, plus it can run gas. I say if you can afford it, go for the Hobart. You'll never regret buying a MIG capable machine.

 

[oldbikerarlo]

I have the Hobart 135 Handler and I love it. You will never regret buying the Hobart.

 

[redsox985]

I believe that Devino said it all.

 

[Blazkowiez]

The difference between fluxcore and mig is staggering for cleanliness and penetration. If you have the money, just agreeing with devino 100% worth it.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

FWIW, my experience with convertible machines indicates that welding in FCAW will successfully penetrate thicker material than when in GMAW mode. Having a convertible machine is a very nice option. You'll never go wrong with a big brand name here, either. May cost some extra bucks on the outset, but the reliability is there, and the resale value will remain high if you ever decide to unload it.

 

[oscaryu1]

I'd actually go for the HF 140a model, as much as I hate to troll P:

 

[r97]

Hobart all the way!!! I just bought a Hobart welder and I love it! An exclenet machine, welds HOT, all the reviews loved it. I see Hobart as a perfect brand welder for your basic DIY person, or even more than that, you really can't beat a 5 FIVE YEAR WARRENTY!!

Hobart does sell a smaller welder, IIRC it's about 300 bucks, 125 A, mig convertible.

Also, @ Oscar, hf 140A isn't really worth it, 300 base price, + 100 dollar outlet, + the hf warranty, + so so reviews, + much lower re-sale value, get the hh140 for 450!!!!!

 

[oscaryu1]

Screw my comment, BUY IT. WELDS ALUMINUM O__O (reversible polarity :O)

 

[machinist@large]

Is this a good welder?

Hobart, Miller, Lincoln, ESAB, all of them make good stuff. In a home/ hobby app. you won,t really be able to notice any big differences between them (not a lot of bells & whistles in this price range).

My 2 cents? Look up who the distributors are in your area and try to buy it locally. Many of them will let you demo the machine before you buy; some even have demo units for sale with a full factory warranty for a greatly reduced price. Also, if there is a problem, you won't have all the hassles of trying to deal with it over the phone.( I'm talking about actual welding supply houses here, not someone on the corner with a couple of machines in boxes with a take it or leave it attitude.).

Try to get on the emailing list for promotions from a couple of houses; most all of them run promos on a regular basis. Many will match sales prices from competitors ( same make and model only, though. Double check before you call.).

Good luck, and happy welding!!